Page 8 - Le Cong Tang Collection HK Nov 27 2017

THE SPIRIT OF ART

Master of Le Cong Tang

Compared to many animals, we humans fall far behind when it comes to certain physical
abilities. Birds fly effortlessly in the sky and fish breathe underwater, neither of which human
can do; nor can human compete in speed and strength with some ferocious animals.Yet, humans
consider themselves as the “spirit” of all species on Earth.Why?
Personally, I think humans surpass animals in at least three important aspects:

First of all, humans have the ability to form abstract thoughts, leading to the development of
mathematics and science, as well as technology and skills.
Second, humans have a sense of aesthetics, are inspired by beauty and have the ability to
transform their experience into art.
Finally, humans are capable of showing respect, whereas animals merely resort to force and
violence. There are many things that people respect, including deities, nature, life, tradition,
erudition, and art.
These three aspects form the “spirit” of humanity. In fact, the reason why humans are superior is
precisely because animals lack such kind of “spirit”.
An artist can create outstanding art works only as a result of three factors. Firstly, the artist needs
numerous years of hard work to develop his or her technique and skill. Secondly, the artist must
possess a transcendent sense of aesthetics. Thirdly, the artist needs to have the utmost respect for
art, and endeavours for perfection.Works that come from the “soul” must thus be full of “spirit.”
People often ask, “If forgeries are just as good as the originals, why can’t they be appreciated on
the same level?”
The problem with forgeries, however, is that they lack “spirit.” The forgers apishly imitate the
techniques of the original in an attempt to deceive the public in the quest for illicit profit. As a
result, forgeries are full of malicious intent and unrighteousness.
Seemingly inanimate, art works actually convey strong messages. Original art works are created
with a sense of sincerity that is full of “spirit”, like a breath of fresh air, imbuing viewers with
vitality. On the other hand, forgeries poison the viewers, lulling them into a state of vulgarity.

The point of collecting is not hoarding things to make a profit but to
gather the “spirit” and then share it with others.
The success of collectors lies not in how much profit they can make
from their collections.
The value is derived from the amount of “spirit” that can be discovered
and passed on.

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